Youth Development - Youth Sports
INFLUENCING KIDS THROUGH TEAM SPORTS
Kids who play sports discover so much more than their athletic abilities. As part of our mission to help develop and nurture the whole child, the Y is committed to offering dynamic youth sports programs. We believe all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve.
Through our sports leagues and clinics at the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, more than 12,000 kids in our communities are cultivating the character, skills and cooperation it takes to be a team player — aside from getting stronger and enhancing their athletic abilities.
Building on Our Legacy
We offer exciting programs in popular sports like soccer and basketball for kids across 14 of our branches in the greater Charlotte area, from leagues and clinics to sports camps and tournaments. Our programs focus more on enhancing skills with practice, team-building and positive encouragement to reap the rewards of friendly competition, and less on instilling a pressure to win.
The Impact of Playing Sports
Picture what it feels like for a child to gain skills and confidence with each new practice. Imagine the sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship a child experiences after playing a great game. The impact of playing sports helps kids be their best. They learn that becoming a stronger athlete doesn’t start on game day when they step on the field or court, but begins with commitment, training and practice.
Benefits of Playing Youth Sports
The positive effects of being part of a sports team are powerful for kids and set them up for success in other areas of their lives:
- Sharpens listening, concentration and memory
- Creates healthy living habits
- Enhances fine and gross motor skills
- Improves social skills
- Builds confidence and self-esteem
- Teaches sportsmanship
- Improves muscle, endurance and fitness level
- Encourages cooperation and teamwork
- Cultivates self-discipline
- Makes exercise fun
Our experienced staff and volunteer coaches help bring out the best in kids as they teach skills that extend beyond the game. Our coaches provide a safe, healthy atmosphere, teach fundamentals of the game and promote the benefits of physical activity and teamwork. The positive benefits of playing youth sports at the Y lead to healthier lifestyles, better relationships and a sense of personal achievement. Check the schedule for a sports team near you!
By giving a couple of hours each week, you have the ability to make a lifelong impact on a child. Volunteer coaches at the Y instill positive values and help kids develop healthy habits that extend far beyond the playing field.
